We can provide you with both a verbal appraisal of an instrument or bow, as well as a quick assessment of any work that we feel should be performed to enhance its value, at no cost to you.

In situations where additional research is needed, particularly in the case of complex repairs requiring written estimates and formal written insurance appraisals, our fee will apply per instrument being assessed. The cost of a detailed repair estimate, put into writing, can be applied towards any work you choose to have performed on your instrument or bow.

If you are bringing in three or more items, please call ahead to let us know so that we can dedicate an appropriate amount of time to focus on your instruments.

APPRAISALS

Mount Airy Violins & Bows recommends that all of our clients purchase insurance coverage for their instruments and bows. For less expensive items, a bill of sale may be enough for one’s homeowners’/renters’ insurance. For more expensive instruments and bows, we can recommend several dedicated instrumental insurance companies to provide coverage in case of any traumatic damage or destruction that would lessen their value.

If you are seeking an updated appraisal for insurance purposes, or if you want a valuation before selling an instrument or bow, we can help you in assessing a fair market value, taking into account the maker, history, condition, and any previous papers you might have. We can also provide paperwork detailing loss of value in the unfortunate case when damage or destruction has occurred. Feel free to give us a call if you have any questions!

Note: Mount Airy Violins & Bows can provide certification of maker for instruments and bows where we are comfortable in our ability to attribute an item to a particular person. We will not issue certifications on items where we are not confident in the origin. In a situation where we feel we don’t have the specific knowledge necessary to attribute an instrument, we can provide you with contact info for other experts in specific makers or schools.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

If you are travelling internationally and taking your instrument with you, you should be aware of regulations in place regarding the import/export of protected species and substances. Specifically, there are travel restrictions in place on several substances used on bows, including ivory, abalone, and certain types of leather.

If you have any questions or concerns, we can look over your bow or instrument and give you an idea if there may be any customs issues should you travel internationally. We can also provide documentation, including Latin nomenclature, as confirmation that there are no restricted species used in the item in question.